Queen of Katwe

Oct 17 - 20 Rhinebeck

Mon

10/17

Tue

10/18

Wed

10/19

Thur

10/20

5:208:00

5:208:00

2:455:208:00

5:208:00

Life is a constant struggle for 10-year-old Phiona who sells corn on the streets of the impoverished shantytown slum of Katwe in Kampala, Uganda, but this changes after she is introduced to the game of chess, and gets really good.
With support from her family and community, she’s instilled with the confidence and determination she needs to pursue her dream of becoming an international chess champion. When Phiona meets Robert Katende (Oyelowo), a soccer player turned missionary who teaches local children chess, she is captivated. Chess requires a good deal of concentration, strategic thinking and risk taking, all skills which are applicable in everyday life, and Katende hopes to empower youth with the game. Phiona is impressed by the intelligence and wit the game requires and immediately shows potential. Recognizing Phiona’s natural aptitude for chess and the fighting spirit she’s inherited from her mother, Katende begins to mentor her, but many obstacles stand between Phiona and her chance to fulfill her extraordinary potential, escape a life of poverty and save her family. Directed by Mira Nair (Monsoon Wedding) from a screenplay by William Wheeler (The Hoax) based on the book by Tim Crothers. The film stars Golden Globe nominee David Oyelowo (Selma), Oscar winner and Tony Award nominee Lupita Nyong’o (12 Years a Slave) and newcomer Madina Nalwanga.